Speech and Language Testing

Comprehensive speech and language testing provides a detailed understanding of how a child communicates, processes language, and uses speech sounds. These assessments help identify specific areas of strength and challenge, leading to targeted treatment recommendations and support strategies that can make a meaningful difference in a child's communication development.

What Does Speech and Language Testing Include?

Our comprehensive evaluations assess multiple areas of communication development:

• Speech Sound Production - How clearly a child pronounces sounds, words, and sentences, including assessment of articulation patterns and speech intelligibility.

• Language Comprehension - How well a child understands spoken language, follows directions, comprehends vocabulary, and processes complex language concepts.

• Expressive Language - How a child uses words, sentences, and grammar to communicate their thoughts, needs, and ideas effectively.

• Social Communication - How a child uses language in social contexts, including conversation skills, nonverbal communication, and understanding social rules of communication.

• Fluency - Assessment of speech flow, including any patterns of stuttering or disruptions in speech rhythm.

• Voice Quality - Evaluation of vocal characteristics including pitch, volume, and vocal health.

Who Benefits from Speech and Language Testing?

Testing may be recommended for children who:

• Are difficult to understand when speaking

• Have limited vocabulary or struggle to find words

• Use short or incomplete sentences

• Have difficulty following directions or answering questions

• Struggle with reading or academic tasks related to language

• Avoid speaking in certain situations

• Repeat sounds, words, or phrases (stuttering)

• Have a hoarse, breathy, or strained voice

• Were late to start talking or have a history of communication delays

• Currently struggle with social dynamics and following interactions.

Our Testing Process

Our speech-language pathologists use standardized assessments, play-based observation, and parent/teacher input to create a complete picture of your child's communication abilities. Testing is conducted in a comfortable, child-friendly environment and tailored to your child's age, attention span, and comfort level.

Assessment typically involves some or all of the following:

• Formal standardized testing

• Informal observation and play-based assessment

• Parent and teacher questionnaires

• Review of medical and developmental history

• Analysis of speech and language samples

Following the evaluation

• Comprehensive written report that includes:

• Clear explanation of test results

• Identification of strengths and areas for growth

• Specific recommendations for treatment or support

• Strategies for home and school environments

• Referral recommendations if additional services are needed